The sale of disposable vapes has been banned in the UK as of 1 June, with businesses now facing the threat of a £200 fine or even prosecution if they are caught selling the single-use product.

This ban follows ongoing concerns around vapes amid the government’s increase in the push for a smoke-free generation.

Vapes, also referred to as e-cigarettes, are devices that are typically filled with flavour vapour, nicotine and other chemicals. They vary in appearance, ranging from pens, pods, and box mods.

Vapes were initially created as a safer, smokeless alternative for individuals who were trying to stop smoking traditional cigarettes. However, since their invention in the early 2000s, vapes have increasingly been used recreationally, with users becoming addicted to the nicotine that is inside.

The side effects of vaping can include respiratory issues, lung damage and nicotine poisoning, with evidence that it can also impair brain development, particularly in youths. Although the long-term health impact of vaping is still being studied, there is growing evidence that suggests it can pose significant health risks to users of all ages.

Disposable vapes can also have a significant environmental impact. Each week, one million single-use vapes are thrown away – enough to cover 22 football pitches.

These single-use devices also contribute to chemical pollution, and their lithium batteries can create a risk for fires due to them being disposed of incorrectly.

Circular economy minister Mary Creagh says these have “blighted our streets as litter and hooked our children on nicotine”. It was estimated that £3.2bn was spent on disposable vapes in the UK last year.

The ban is part of a bill that the government says will be ‘the biggest public health intervention in a generation‘ and will create the first smoke-free generation.

Referred to as the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, it will also take measures to ban the advertising and sponsorship of vapes, as well as extend the already-established smoke-free areas to vape-free too.

How many people in the UK vape?

The UK-wide bill was first introduced in November 2024, developed in partnership with the Scottish government, the Welsh government and the Northern Ireland executive.

Caroline Cerny, deputy chief executive at Action on Smoking and Health, described the new law as “a step towards reducing vaping among children, while ensuring products are available to support people to quit smoking”.

“It will be up to manufacturers and retailers to ensure customers are informed and able to reuse and recycle their products, securing a real change in consumer behaviour and a reduction in environmental waste,” she said.

According to GOV.UK, one in four children aged between 11 and 15 had tried vaping in 2023.

In 2024, a survey revealed that 4.6% of 11-15-year-olds, 14% of 16-17-year-olds and 17% of 18-year-olds were using e-cigarettes.

Among adult smokers (18+), another survey revealed that a combination of 70% of respondents said they had used e-cigarettes between 2013-2023. This was in comparison to the 27% who said they had never used the product.

Where can you vape in the UK?

Vaping policies are usually tied in under smoking policies, but there is no blanket ban on vaping in enclosed public spaces in the same way that there is for smoking. With outdoor areas, smoking is generally allowed, unless specified, with the exception of child-dominated or healthcare spaces.

The Health Act 2006 enforced a blanket rule against smoking for indoor areas. This means smoking is illegal entirely in enclosed public spaces such as pubs, cafes, restaurants, workplaces and public transport. However, rules around where you can vape may vary.

Cruise ships

There are usually designated vaping areas like outdoor decks, and there may be some exceptions like casinos and clubs.

Outdoor areas

Some outdoor areas, such as pubs, bars, gardens and parks permit vaping. However, these rules may vary as there is no blanket rule for all outdoor areas. Be sure to check the specific rules.

Private indoor areas

In private areas such as your home, vaping is allowed. Even if you work from home, there is no legal requirement to keep your workspace vape-free.

Where can’t you vape in the UK?

Schools

Most schools have strict policies against vaping.

Children’s playgrounds

Vaping is banned in children’s playgrounds.

Hospitals

Most UK hospitals have banned vapes from the inside and on hospital grounds.

Trains

Vaping is not allowed on all trains across the UK.

Planes

You are allowed to bring your vape on the plane, but it must be stored in your hand luggage while on board. Using vapes on a plane is prohibited.

Bus and coach

While not explicitly illegal, vaping is strictly prohibited on these transport services.

Sports stadiums

Most stadium owners impose similar restrictions around vaping. Premier League football venues tend to have zero-smoking policies, whereas lower league stadiums may prohibit smoking. Be sure to check your specific sports stadium for details.

Music venues

These venues set their own rules around vaping. In the O2 Arena, smoking is allowed in certain areas, whereas it is illegal to smoke and vaping is prohibited in the Royal Albert Hall. Be sure to check your specific music venue for details.

Restaurants

There is no blanket ban on vapes in restaurants, but it is to the owners discretion whether or not vapes are allowed.